KTT Lightning vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, there are clear distinctions in terms of their characteristics and functionalities. The Lightning is ideal for gamers looking for speedy, precise keystrokes with its clacky sound profile and polished feel, making it a great choice for competitive gaming scenarios where split-second decisions matter. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch provides a quieter and more tactile typing experience, perfect for those seeking a satisfying yet subdued keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Outemu Silent Grey switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. This results in a clear and resonant sound that is especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting. The similarity in the top housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using both the Lightning and Silent Grey switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Lightning features a nylon housing while the Silent Grey also utilizes nylon. Nylon is praised for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in both the Lightning and Silent Grey bottom housings implies that users can anticipate a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel between the two switches.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings in a switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on a switch, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials between the KTT Lightning and Outemu Silent Grey switches, users can still expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing and polycarbonate in the top housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the Lightning has a lighter actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Silent Grey's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Lightning at 50 grams is lighter than the Silent Grey's 65 grams, making it the heavier of the two. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lightning more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Silent Grey for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is clear that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm compared to the Silent Grey's 4 mm. The Lightning switch would be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switch, with its longer travel distance, would be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on the keys. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, with the Lightning providing a quicker, more responsive feel and the Silent Grey offering a more deliberate, tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Outemu Silent Grey comes in at $3.10.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch provides a more quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a muted sound while still enjoying a tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience, with a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. This results in a slick and refined typing feel, ideal for those looking for a light and polished typing experience. The Outemu Silent Grey switch, on the other hand, offers a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Again, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the overall typing experience desired.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a subtle and polished typing feel, or a quiet and tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, both switches have something to offer. Ultimately, the decision between the Lightning and Silent Grey switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Lightning linear switch or the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, you should base your decision on your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a fast and responsive typing experience that can give you an edge in competitive gaming or typing situations where speed is crucial, then the Lightning switch would be an ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience that offers a satisfying bump and smooth keystrokes, then the Silent Grey switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value the most - speed and responsiveness with the Lightning switch, or quiet tactile satisfaction with the Silent Grey switch.
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